The Regenerative Cotton Standard® (RCS) is setting a new benchmark in sustainable cotton sourcing. For retailers and brands, it answers a critical question: How can we source cotton that is future-proof, credible, and compliant with upcoming regulations?

Below, we address the most important questions brands are asking about RCS.

 What does the Regenerative Cotton Standard® stand for?

Developed by the Aid by Trade Foundation (AbTF), RCS is a voluntary standard for cotton grown by small-scale farmers using regenerative farming methods.

Its goals:

• Improve resilience and productivity of smallholder farms
  
• Strengthen biodiversity and soil health
  
• Support rural communities and animal welfare
  
• Embed smallholder knowledge into global cotton sourcing

Unlike many existing certifications, RCS does not only focus on cotton as a crop – it addresses the entire agricultural system.

 How does RCS define “Regenerative Agriculture”?

RCS defines regenerative agriculture as:

“Actively creating co-benefits in interaction between nature, people, society, and the economy – bringing agricultural systems into a better state than they are currently in.”

This means going beyond “do no harm” to actively restore ecosystems, empower people, and improve outcomes across the supply chain.

 Is RCS the same as Cotton made in Africa®?

No. Both standards were developed by AbTF, but they serve different purposes:

• Cotton made in Africa® (CmiA): Standard for sustainable cotton grown in Sub-Saharan Africa, launched in 2005. Focus: environmental protection and improved livelihoods for African smallholders.
  
• Regenerative Cotton Standard® (RCS): Standard for cotton grown globally using regenerative farming methods, with a stronger emphasis on regeneration, resilience, and system-wide impact.

 What does RCS cost for brands?

Collaborating with RCS does not add procurement costs.
Brands only pay a license fee, which can be covered via the marketing budget. This makes RCS a cost-neutral choice in sourcing – while enabling strong sustainability storytelling.

 How does RCS ensure transparency and traceability?

RCS uses the Hard Identity Preserved (HIP) Chain of Custody model.
This means every product containing RCS cotton – from ginneries to yarns, fabrics, and garments – is traceable through the entire supply chain.

The AbTF Transparency Standard defines the rules for all actors in the chain, ensuring:

• No mixing with non-certified cotton
  
• Full traceability for every lot
  
• Trustworthy data for brands and retailers

Why should retailers and brands choose RCS?

• Regulatory alignment (EU Green Claims, CSRD, ESG frameworks)
  
• Marketing value through authentic storytelling and farmer engagement
  
• Credibility: No greenwashing – verified social & environmental impact
• Future-proof sourcing: Builds resilience into supply chains